8.3: The Role of Ethics in Human Resource Management
- This chapter discusses the ethical issues that arise in organizations, in the areas of human resources, finance, sales, marketing, and production. The chapter also notes the Enron scandal, a highly-publicized case regarding ethics. Take some time to search for the Enron scandal and note the ongoing effect this case has on business today.
This article notes the conflict that sometimes arises between organizational cultures that are driven by numbers and ethics. Training, mentoring, rewards, recognition, and continuous monitoring and reinforcing describe methods for creating and maintaining an ethical culture. As noted in previous chapters, some debate whether corporate culture is the most critical component of an effective organization. Within this culture, an ethical climate is mandatory.
- This journal study notes the most effective steps in creating an organizational culture focused on ethics. As noted, it all starts at the top. The first step is a clear commitment to ethics from top management. After this, a code of ethics, ethics training, and an appropriate rewards structure reinforces the organization's commitment to ethics.